Fort Covington man dies in motorcycle crash

CANTON  A Fort Covington man is dead after losing control of his motorcycle in the hamlet of Helena late Wednesday morning.

State police responded to a call of the one-vehicle crash that left Ralph Deshane, 48, dead at approximately 11:45 a.m.

The cause of the crash is still under investigation. Police, who found no signs of skid marks, said it appeared that the Mr. Deshane drove off the road.

Helena Fire Department and Tri-Town Volunteer Rescue Squad responded to the scene, where Mr. Deshane was found in a ditch on Route 37C heading toward Massena, just northwest of the highways intersection with Depot Street.

Police said Mr. Deshane was ejected from the bike after going through a slight curve in the road, but St. Lawrence County Coroner June H. Wood said speed didnt seem to be a factor.

He had just completed his road test for his motorcycle license and was heading home, Ms. Wood said. No alcohol or drugs are believed to be a factor.

An autopsy was to be conducted at 5 p.m. Wednesday.

Ms. Wood said bystanders who witnessed the accident made attempts at CPR, but Mr. Deshane was unresponsive.

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